A guide to buying the right running shoes

So you’ve been thinking about getting into shape or maybe joining the local charity run or planning to get a new pair. Whatever maybe the case, the first thing you need to do is find a good pair of running shoes. Running shoes which are sometimes called joggers or sneakers, aren’t all about being soft and cushioned, it’s got a lot more to do with your running style and shape of your foot.

Running shoes these days come with traction on different surfaces, protection, superior cushioning, breathability, flexibility in the right places, etc. Running involves the repeated stress of thousands of foot landings and each time the foot has to absorb two or three times the body weight. So it is important that we choose our running shoes properly.

Just going by the brand alone isn’t enough. We need to know what type of feet have, whether we are flat footed, high arched or normal arched. This is important because our walking or running movements are closely related to the shape. Knowing your running style is also important. One simple way to check that would be checking the wear pattern on the soles of your well-used running shoes. If the wear is focused on the ball of the feet and a portion of the heel then you have a neutral stride. If wear is along the insides of your shoe then it’s over pronation and if it’s along the outer edges then it’s supination.

Now if you’ve a normal arched foot then you should go with shoes that offer stability. People with flat feet should go with high stability shoes, while those with high arched feet will find that their feet are comfortable in ones that are highly cushioned and offer plenty of flexibility.

Where you plan to run is also important, off road or on road, you’ll have to factor that when you’re buying a pair or running shoes.
Knowing why we run is important. If it’s for fitness, fun or exercise then shoes get minimal usage. If it’s for speed or endurance the shoes has to be comfortable and be able to last longer.

Most running shoes these days are made of synthetic leather which is durable, dries quickly and more breathable than real leather. Most shoes have nylon and nylon mesh to reduce weight and increase breathability. They are also waterproof and keep the feet dry but also allowing breathability. Thermoplastic urethane is used to enhance stability and durability.

Aiming for a thumbnails length in the toebox will ensure a snug fit and also make sure that you avoid losing any toenails and also allow your foot to move without rubbing.